FOR the first time in just under 30 years, the Hay Football Club prepare to run out to face their Golden Rivers opponents as reigning premiers.
The drought-breaking premiership, the Lions’ first since 1995, was the cherry on top of a fairytale finals run for the eventual premiers, as they came from third to win it all.
The Lions’ dominant finals performances shone a light on a fact the league’s competitors are well aware of; that on their day, anyone can win in the Golden Rivers.
Murrabit’s disappointing year in senior football was soon an afterthought, as their triumphant A Grade netball side defeated Macorna in their grand final match-up.
An interesting tidbit from the 2023 season is the contrasting fortunes of the clubs
Hay won the senior football premiership while their A Grade netball team finished last.
Murrabit won the A Grade netball premiership while their senior football team finished last.
As teams throughout the league strengthen on the field and the courts, each premier will be aware there is a target upon their backs.
Ultima and Macorna will be both be hoping to go one step further this season in senior football and netball respectively, but any challenger can make a run.
Moulamein were there and abouts in both sports last year and will be hoping 2024 is the year they break their premiership drought.
With the local talent spread across just six Golden Rivers clubs, there is always the chance for an unexpected challenger to emerge.
Hay have spent the off-season with a focus on strengthening their netball side, and will be hoping for an improved showing.
Wandella and Murrabit will be looking to re-enter the fray and make the finals this year.
Only one thing is for certain as we enter the 2024 Golden Rivers season, we’re in for a cracking year.
